Everyone seems to be doing it. Nono even has a whole series on it (check out the october archive). I thought I might as well list the stuff that I might like in case some rich relative (or rich and generous friend) decides to read this and actually buys any of the items listed here.

It’s funny though that though I still have my “techno-lust,” as we would call it, that I can honestly say I’m pretty content with “what I have” as it were. Sure we can always use more if possible, but it’s not like I make it a point to focus my work and efforts to buying stuff (which was often the case in the past). Simply put, anything I may want is just that… a “want.” It’s not a really want. And if I really wanted something, I’d probably get it [myself] anyways, I’ve saved up quite a lot for my trip to the US during the holidays.

My Grown-up Christmas List.

1. No more lives torn apart.
2. Wars would never start.
3. Time would heal all hearts.
4. Every (wo)man would have a friend.
5. Right would always win.
6. Love would never end.

Just kidding, nice lyrics though - it’s from the song “Grown-up Christmas List” by Amy Grant(?)

My [not so] Grown-up Christmas List.

1. Frontier Design’s AlphaTrack DAW Surface Controller ($250)
   Ok, I admit this is a really want. I’m getting this whether or not someone buys it for me. Out on January
2. Speck See-Thru Hardhsell Case for MacBook Pro ($40)
   Another really want. No, this is a must have for me. Although right now, they don’t have a version for the new C2D MBPs, so I’ll have to wait it out.
3. Tech21 SansAmp Para Driver DI Instrument Pedal ($200)
   I know I got my Behringer DI box already, but this is what I really would’ve wanted if I had the cash. The Taylor people use this all the time in their video presentations, so I’m guessing this is the “approved” Taylor DI box hehehehe.
4. M-Audio Keystation 49e ($100, or $70 refurbished)
   I always wanted a simple MIDI controller to plot notes with instead of my current tedious process of having to use the mouse. GP was supposed to sell me his Oxygen, but I believe it had only 2 octaves - which is pretty limiting if you wanted to lay-in some piano parts. I particularly like the Keystation because it’s stripped down of every other “extra” controller function other than your basic MIDI input (note, wheel, etc.). I’m not a fan of workstations with integrated surface controller features because if you get a big one, then you can’t bring it anywhere easily - oh and don’t forget the price premium on it. We all know that we often take more time automating/mixing than actually inputting notes. So a separate, small surface controller would be a more useful investment in the long run.
5. Be-Open Stainless steel bottle opener ($15)
   I first heard/saw this design for a bottle opener from Diggnation, where you just place it on the bottle, push down, and when it springs back up, you’d have the cap removed and attached to the magnet already. Simple and elegant. For $15 this is a truly perfect “gift” anyone can give.
6. Magic Bullet Blendermixer System ($60)
   Again, first seen/heard in Diggnation. This is a total geek-trip. It’s actually a manual blending system, meaning there’s not motors involved. Perfect for bringing to parties if you like concocting your own drinks and shit. Not that I know how to, but that would make a fine addition to any kitchen.
7. 8GB iPod Nano ($250)
   Do I even have to explain this? Bigger HDD: good. Metal casing: good
8. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM Lens ($1,100)
   I can dream can’t I? My regular 28-135 IS USM lens, which has roughly similar specs, continues to serve me well, I will most definitely welcome adding an “L” suffix to it. Or maybe if I’m really lucky, I’d get this.
9. M-Audio Delta 1010 LT ($200)
   Once my Terratec DMX 6Fire conks out, I’ll be replacing it with this, but if someone gives it to me early, I’m not complaining. The cheaper Audiophile 2496 ($100) seems ok too.